The Minister of National Security plans to travel to Jamaica next week to visit Bermuda’s troops deployed there to deliver post-hurricane relief.

Michael Weeks is to call on volunteers from the Royal Bermuda Regiment assisting communities battered by Hurricane Melissa in October.

The worst recorded hurricane in Jamaica’s history left its mark on more than 700,000 people, as dozens of communities were cut off and approximately 200,000 homes were destroyed or severely damaged.

About 30 regiment personnel will serve in Jamaica until February 28, working alongside regional partners.

The soldiers will be embedded with the Jamaica Defence Force Engineer Regiment, which will lead and co-ordinate efforts, ensuring resources and skills are directed where they are most needed.

They will operate in field conditions and have met strict pre-deployment standards, including medical and fitness requirements.

Mr Weeks said: “By working alongside partner defence forces, Bermuda is contributing where the need remains real and where our skills can make a measurable difference for families working to rebuild.”

The regiment’s primary task in Jamaica will be to to help repair storm damaged roofs in the parish of St Elizabeth, one of the worst-hit areas.